Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is a delightful and budget-friendly dish that brings together a medley of flavors in a hearty roll. Perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or even potlucks, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. With the satisfaction of ground beef, cheese, and condiments all wrapped in warm bread dough, it’s no wonder Garbage Bread is a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 40 minutes.
- Customizable Fillings: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Add veggies or different cheeses for a unique twist!
- Budget-Friendly: Using cost-effective ingredients ensures you can feed your family without breaking the bank.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering, Garbage Bread fits right in.
- Kid-Friendly: The fun combination of flavors and dipping sauce makes this dish appealing to kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make Garbage Bread, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (or non-stick spray)
- Brush for egg wash
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly.
- Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough to the perfect thickness for filling.
- Baking sheet: Provides a surface for baking the rolled-up bread without sticking.
Ingredients
Garbage Bread is a delicious, budget-friendly dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.
For the Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
For the Dough
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
For the Condiments
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
Toppings
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon (or store-bought bacon pieces)
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 8 slices American cheese
Finishing Touches
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Thousand Island dressing for dipping
How to Make Garbage Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef along with diced onion until fully browned.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Drain any excess grease after cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface:
1. Roll out the refrigerated French bread dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches.
Step 4: Add Condiments
Spread ketchup and mustard evenly over the dough:
– Leave about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Evenly distribute cooked ground beef over condiments:
– Sprinkle crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Place American cheese slices in a single layer over the fillings.
Step 7: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll up the dough from one of the long ends:
– Seal edges tightly.
– Place rolled dough seam side down on prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Brush and Bake
Brush top of dough with beaten egg:
– Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
– Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool for at least five minutes before slicing:
– Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade Garbage Bread!
How to Serve Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread is not only a fun dish to make but also an easy one to serve. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a casual gathering with friends, this dish can be enjoyed in many delightful ways.
With Dipping Sauces
- Thousand Island Dressing: This creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the flavors in Garbage Bread. It adds a tangy touch that enhances each bite.
- Ranch Dressing: For ranch lovers, this dressing is a great choice. It complements the savory elements of the bread and offers a cool contrast.
- BBQ Sauce: A sweet and smoky BBQ sauce can elevate the taste even more. It’s a fun twist that brings out the beefiness of the dish.
As Part of a Platter
- Charcuterie Board: Slice your Garbage Bread and serve it on a charcuterie board. Add meats, cheeses, and olives for an attractive spread.
- Game Day Spread: Cut into wedges and arrange with chips and veggies. This makes for an easy snack during sports events.
With Salads
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad is a perfect side to balance the richness of Garbage Bread. The crisp romaine and creamy dressing offer a delightful contrast.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, making it an ideal companion to this hearty dish.
How to Perfect Garbage Bread
Making Garbage Bread is simple, but there are ways to elevate your dish further. Here are some tips for achieving perfection with each bake.
- Seasoning: Add extra herbs or spices to your ground beef mix for additional flavor. Consider garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack for added depth and spice.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the filling for more nutrition and texture.
- Make it Spicy: For those who love heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce into the mixture before rolling for a spicy kick.
- Ensure Even Cooking: Roll the dough tightly yet evenly; this helps ensure that all parts cook uniformly without unevenly browned edges.
Best Side Dishes for Garbage Bread
Garbage Bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery sticks are great for dipping and add an aromatic touch alongside your main dish.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit. They can be served plain or loaded with toppings like cheese and bacon.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges are another excellent choice, offering both crunch and heartiness next to your Garbage Bread.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides freshness, cutting through the richness of the bread.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights add an elegant touch while providing another layer of flavor to your meal.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For something unique, try spicy buffalo cauliflower bites as they provide crunch and heat in every bite.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans can enhance your meal’s flavor profile while adding heartiness.
Combining these sides will create a balanced meal that everyone will love!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Garbage Bread can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and a perfectly golden crust.
- Overfilling the Dough: Don’t overload the fillings. Too much stuffing can cause the bread to burst while baking; stick to the recommended amounts.
- Neglecting to Seal Edges: Make sure to seal the edges tightly when rolling up the dough. This prevents any fillings from leaking out during baking.
- Not Letting It Cool: Allowing the bread to cool for a few minutes makes slicing easier and improves presentation. Slicing too soon can make a mess.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients, especially cheese, are at room temperature. This helps them melt better and blend with the other flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Garbage Bread will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garbage Bread
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Garbage Bread
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garbage Bread that might help you out:
What is Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread is a savory dish made by filling dough with various ingredients like beef, cheese, and condiments. It’s both tasty and versatile!
Can I customize my Garbage Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different meats, vegetables, or cheeses based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
How do I know when Garbage Bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it turns golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped. A baking thermometer should read around 190°F inside.
What can I serve with Garbage Bread?
Garbage Bread pairs well with dips such as Thousand Island dressing or ranch sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad.
Final Thoughts
Garbage Bread offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to what you love or have available at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating your very own masterpiece!
Garbage Bread
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Garbage Bread is a delightful, budget-friendly dish that combines savory ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty condiments all wrapped in warm, soft dough. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or potlucks, Garbage Bread is sure to please everyone at the table. With a golden-brown crust and mouthwatering fillings, this comforting bread roll delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup diced onion
- 11-ounce tube refrigerated French bread dough
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons mustard
- 8 slices American cheese
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 dill pickle spears (chopped)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until browned. Drain excess grease and season with salt and pepper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerated French bread dough into a rectangle (approximately 12×18 inches).
- Spread ketchup and mustard over the dough, leaving a half-inch border.
- Layer cooked ground beef, crumbled bacon, chopped pickles, and cheese on top.
- Roll the dough tightly from one long end and seal the edges well.
- Place seam-side down on the baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for five minutes before slicing. Serve with Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
